Billy Rowe: From Rock Bottom to Rock 'n' Roll Relics
Episode Overview
Billy Rowe's journey from Jetboy to founding Rock 'n' Roll Relics. The impact of addiction on Billy's life and career. The tragic loss of bandmate Todd Crew to an overdose. The importance of finding passion and purpose in recovery. Surrounding oneself with supportive people is crucial for sobriety.
I think having a passion for something you really love to do is a huge help in staying on track with things.
Billy Rowe, the legendary guitarist from Jetboy, joins Jane Gordon on Rock Recovery to share his rollercoaster journey through the highs and lows of rock 'n' roll life. Billy's story begins in the vibrant music scene of San Francisco and Los Angeles, where Jetboy rubbed shoulders with icons like Guns N’ Roses and Poison. But it wasn't all glamour; the episode dives into the darker side of fame, including the tragic loss of bandmate Todd Crew to an overdose.
Billy reflects on how the rock lifestyle normalised excessive drinking and drug use, making it a part of daily life in the '70s and '80s. Despite the chaos around him, Billy managed to stay relatively in control, often playing the caretaker role for his bandmates. However, personal struggles and dysfunctional relationships eventually led him down a path of self-destructive behaviour.
It was only after hitting rock bottom that Billy found solace in building guitars, creating Rock 'n' Roll Relics, a respected name in the industry today. His journey to sobriety involved not just quitting substances but also finding a new purpose and passion. Billy's story is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of surrounding oneself with supportive people.
This episode is a raw, honest look at the challenges and triumphs of recovery, offering hope and inspiration to anyone facing similar battles. Tune in to hear how Billy turned his life around and continues to thrive in both his personal and professional life.